Belgian coach rages at FIFA’s April‑Fool decision on Balogun

Belgian national team coach Rudi Garcia and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed strong displeasure at a FIFA ruling that permits striker Folarin Balogun to feature in the round‑of‑16 clash with the United States, despite his red card suspension from the group stage. Balogun received a direct red card in Belgium’s group‑stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina after unintentionally stepping on an opponent’s ankle, prompting VAR intervention. Under normal World Cup regulations, such a dismissal triggers an automatic one‑match ban. The FIFA disciplinary committee later suspended the red card, allowing Balogun to be eligible for the upcoming round‑of‑16 match against the United States. According to the New York Times, the reversal followed pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. The United States‑Belgium fixture is set for the night of Monday into Tuesday, with kickoff scheduled at 02:00.

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Garcia insisted the decision does not alter Belgium’s game plan, stating, “No, this changes nothing to our gameplan.” Courtois added, “We play football on the field, and the rest is up to the federation.” The Belgian football federation (KBVB) said it was “surprised” by the ruling and announced an investigation into its compliance with World Cup regulations.

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Garcia argued the federation’s intervention serves a broader purpose, noting, “The federation does not act for itself or the national team, but for football in general. It is the first time in football history such a decision has been taken.” Earlier training sessions featured a different striker, but the squad has now reviewed footage of Balogun and can make tactical tweaks. Courtois emphasized readiness, saying the team will prepare for all threats, including the danger posed by United States winger Christian Pulisic on the flanks.